Phytoremediation

phytoextraction

absorb contaminants through roots and translocate to above ground parts

used for heavy metals

plant e.g. sunflower

phytodegradation

degradation of organic pollutants by metabolic processes in plant tissues

used for pesticides, solvents e.g. PCBs

plant e.g. willow tree

phytostabilisation

plants immobilise contaminants in soil by creating a barrier or binding contaminants to soil particles

used for heavy metals

plant e.g. fescue grass, buffalo grass

phytovolatilisation

absorb contaminants from soil & water and release to air as volatile compounds by transpiration

used for heavy metals & VOCs

plant e.g. willow trees

rhizofiltration

plant roots absorb, concentrate & precipitate contaminants from solution

used for treating contaminated groundwater

plant e.g. sunflower

rhizodegradation

plants & root-associated microorganisms work together to degrade organic pollutants in soil

used for petroleum hydrocarbons

plant e.g. willow trees